S8E192: Unlocking the secrets to conferences with Greg Lawton, Olli Wade and Micah Piippo!
In this episode we join forces with the Beyond Deadlines podcast crew recoded live in Washington, DC. We discuss the significance of expos and conferences in the project management field. The boys emphasize the importance of networking, community building, and the shared challenges faced by professionals. The conversation highlights the need for younger generations to engage in these events, innovative workshop ideas for learning, and the value of hands-on experience with software. They also explore the current AI landscape, the importance of genuine conversations, and the role of feedback in continuous learning. In this conversation, we discuss the critical aspects of project management, emphasizing the importance of networking. They explore the common challenges faced in project delivery, particularly the issue of late projects, and the role of project controls in ensuring successful outcomes. The discussion also highlights the need for collaboration among project management tools and the significance of professional development through workshops and networking events.
Check out Beyond Deadlines here: https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondDeadlines
Takeaways
- š Expos provide valuable networking opportunities for professionals.
- š Community building is essential for tackling shared challenges.
- š Younger generations should be encouraged to participate in conferences.
- š Workshops can enhance learning experiences significantly.
- š Hands-on experience with software is crucial for understanding its application.
- š Navigating the AI landscape requires awareness of numerous startups.
- š Conversations at events can lead to valuable insights and connections.
- š Learning from others' experiences can accelerate personal growth.
- š Feedback is vital for refining ideas and approaches.
- š Networking is a key component of professional development.
- Follow-up is essential for maintaining professional relationships.
- š Building a network requires ongoing communication and value exchange.
- š Memorable interactions often involve humor and genuine interest.
- š Late project delivery is a widespread issue across industries.
- š Resource loading schedules can complicate project management.
- š Understanding the value of project controls is crucial for success.
- š Project teams should be empowered to manage their schedules effectively.
- š Collaboration among project management tools can enhance efficiency.
- š Investing in professional development is vital for career growth.
- š Networking events provide valuable opportunities for learning and connection.
Guests
Greg Lawton
CEO & co-founder at Nodes & Links
Greg Lawton is the CEO and co-founder of Nodes & Links, a project intelligence and analysis platform that applies machine learning and automation to project data. The software outputs actionable insights to help teams tame project complexity. Prior to founding Nodes & Links, Greg was an astrophysicist working for BAE Systems, managing large defence programmes and advising the board of directors on international strategy. It was during his time at BAE that he realised there was a need for a tool that could simplify the lives of project controls professionals by reducing manual tasks. Greg is focused on building a world-class product and ambitious team who are committed to driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with technology. He lives in Zurich with his wonderful wife, Anina, and his adorable puppy, Dippy.
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Micah Piippo
Schedule Integration and Planning Manager at Intel
Micah Piippo is the CEO of Movar US and a leading voice in construction planning, scheduling, and project delivery. He brings deep industry expertise from roles at Intel and Google, where he led strategic initiatives in capital project execution, infrastructure planning, and technology integration. At Intel, Micah drove on-time delivery across verticals by modernizing planning practices and advancing organizational culture. At Google, he built the Data Center scheduling program and co-founded the Computer Vision in Construction team, which automated tasks and delivered multimillion-dollar savings.
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